The rarest Darth Vader action figure in existence recently sold at an auction, setting a new all-time record for the sale of that collectible.

Darth Vader Action Figure Sells at Auction

The 1977 Kenner Darth Vader First Shot Loose action figure sold in a Goldin auction on June 3 for a whopping $51,241. It’s no wonder the action figure was so sought after: only one other is known to exist.

What makes this figure so rare and valuable? It’s that “first shot” description. “First shot” figures are test toys made early in development. Various elements of the product may be adjusted before hitting the market.

In this case, Vader’s chest panel is hand painted and he’s molded in a glossier plastic than the final figure. The lightsaber has a “mushroom tip” to prevent over-retraction of the inner saber, a design that never went to mass production. All his accessories are intact, including the rare lightsaber and cape.

And note the date — 1977. That’s the year the first Star Wars film, A New Hope, was released. Which may sound logical, but if you’re familiar with Star Wars toy history, you’ll know Kenner didn’t create a lot of Star Wars merchandise for the film’s release because it was such a gamble. Of course, the film was hugely successful and Kenner had to scramble to get something out in time for Christmas.

They launched the unique “Empty Box Campaign,” which allowed buyers to get a literal empty box with images of the 12 Star Wars toys Kenner would release the next year. It included a certificate promising buyers would get the first four figures in early 1978.

Those four figures did not include Vader. The set was Luke Skywalker, R2-D2, Princess Leia, and Chewbacca. But this “first shot” Darth Vader was produced during the development phase circa 1977, making it one of the earliest Vader figures ever created (if not the earliest).

Do you collect Star Wars action figures? Let us know on social media.

For the latest Disney Parks news and info, follow WDW News Today on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.